The Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Hon. Justice Babatunde Adejumo OFR has reiterated the institute's commitment to continuous training for judges at both superior and lower courts to ensure balanced, fair, and reform-oriented judgments.
Justice Adejumo made the statement during a courtesy visit to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) at the UN House Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.
In his keynote address on the growing partnership between UNODC and the National Judicial Institute, Justice Adejumo drew attention to the persistent rise in drug abuse among teenagers, describing it as a troubling and recurring challenge within society.
Justice Adejumo stressed the importance of sustained partnership between the NJI and UNODC in organizing capacity building programmes for judges, particularly on how to handle drug-related cases and other emerging criminal trends with fairness and discernment, which cannot be over-emphasized.
Stating further, Justice Adejumo stated that justice must not only punish but also reform, and emphasized that the administration of justice is broad and involves multiple actors, all working collectively to address offences within society. He raised a critical question: What are the root causes of the incessant use of drugs? This, he noted, underscores the need for stronger institutional collaboration.
In his response, the Country Representative, Mr Cheikh Ousmane Toure, spoke on ongoing discussions regarding a proposed facility that would further enhance judicial training and strengthen engagement in UNODC focal areas. He emphasized the need to maximize the Institute’s platform for structured training, including inter-agency programmes that promote collaboration among justice sector stakeholders.
Mr. Cheikh reaffirmed UNODC’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the National Judicial Institute.
In furtherance of National Judicial Institute commitment at ensuring effective coordination, sustained engagement, and seamless communication between the NJI and UNODC, Justice Adejumo appointed Barrister Ufedo Grace Tom-Yakubu, Research Assistant to the Administrator, as Desk Officer on UNODC matters.
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